LEARN TO PUSH BACK

Columbia University psychology professor Derald Wing Sue on how to respond to these everyday slights

THE MICRO-AGGRESSION

A colleague shames you at a meeting for taking parental leave.

THE MANAGERIAL APPROACH

While a sarcastic comment may telegraph your annoyance, this is a workplace situation. Ask a manager to address this on your behalf.

THE MICRO-AGGRESSION

Someone says to you, “You speak English so well.”

THE DIPLOMATIC APPROACH

THE MICRO-AGGRESSION

A stranger comments on your voice not matching your race.

THE DIRECT APPROACH

Try: “Why do you think that?” This question turns the lens back on the micro-aggressor and places accountability on them.

“I hope so. I was raised here.” This statement helps to reveal, without being confrontational, that they made false assumptions.